The Home Office has published its long-anticipated immigration policy paper, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledging a significant drop in immigration numbers by the end of the current parliamentary term.
The document outlines a series of new measures aimed at curbing net migration, which peaked at over 900,000 in 2023.
In a politically charged foreword, Starmer criticised what he described as a “one-nation experiment in open borders” under the Conservative government, citing unsustainable pressure on public services and a lack of economic benefit. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed the need for reform, though specific target figures for reduction were not included.
Key Measures in the New Immigration Policy:
1. Net Migration to Fall
The government has made it clear that it intends to bring migration figures down significantly. Starmer and Cooper argued that unchecked migration has not translated into economic growth, and instead added strain to public systems.
2. Skilled Worker Visa Overhaul
The qualification threshold for skilled worker visas will be raised from RQF level 3 (A-level equivalent) to RQF level 6 (degree level). However, visas may still be granted for RQF3-5 roles on a time-limited basis if the Migration Advisory Committee identifies a domestic shortage. Employers will be expected to demonstrate efforts to reduce their reliance on foreign labour.
3. End to Overseas Social Care Recruitment
The government plans to phase out overseas recruitment for social care roles by 2028. A transitional period will allow current visa holders to extend their stay or switch roles within the UK. While the move is paired with pledges to reform and professionalise the UK’s care sector, industry insiders have raised concerns about potential staffing shortages.
4. Tougher Student Visa Requirements
International students, a key factor in net migration growth, are also under scrutiny. Institutions sponsoring students will face stricter compliance metrics, including higher standards for visa approvals and course completion. Short-term language courses are also under review. Despite the sector’s £20bn annual contribution, the policy reflects concerns over long-term stays and enrolment in lower-ranked institutions.
5. Stricter Language Requirements
New language proficiency rules will be introduced, requiring visa applicants and their adult dependents to show progressive improvement in English. These standards will be mandatory for visa renewals and settlement applications.
6. Delayed Path to Settlement
The timeframe for permanent settlement (indefinite leave to remain) will double from five years to ten years under the new rules, a move some say will hinder integration for long-term residents.
7. Expanded Deportation Powers
The threshold for deporting foreign nationals will be lowered. Offenders with short-term visas may now face removal for a wider range of crimes, not just those resulting in prison sentences of 12 months or more. This includes a particular focus on sexual offences. The government also intends to clarify how Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights—covering the right to family life—is applied in immigration cases.
8. Higher Immigration Skills Charges
The Immigration Skills Charge—paid by employers when hiring foreign skilled workers—will rise by 32%, the first increase since 2017. Exceptions remain for certain fields like scientific research.
9. New E-Identity System
To better track arrivals and manage data, the government will roll out electronic identity cards for foreign nationals, replacing the current biometric residence permits. The system builds on the recent eVisa rollout.
While the measures are set to reshape UK immigration policy, critics argue that some reforms may risk undermining sectors dependent on foreign workers, including health and education. The effectiveness of these policies will likely become clearer as implementation progresses in the months ahead.
